GILGIT: In a remarkable feat of mountaineering, legendary Russian climber Denis Urubko and his wife Maria Cardell have successfully summited Nanga Parbat (8,126m) in alpine style—without the aid of supplementary oxygen—and carved a new ascent route via the Diamir Face.
The couple arrived at base camp on Saturday and swiftly scaled the notorious “Killer Mountain,” returning safely in a fast and light climb. Speaking to Dawn, Karim Shah Nizari, a close associate of the climbers, confirmed their successful summit and pioneering new route.
Urubko’s latest accomplishment adds to his stellar record—28 ascents of eight-thousanders, including seven new routes and two first-ever winter summits of Makalu (2009) and Gasherbrum II (2011). Impressively, he has completed all 14 of the world’s highest peaks without using supplementary oxygen.
Located in the western Himalayas, Nanga Parbat is considered one of Pakistan’s most treacherous eight-thousanders, alongside K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I, and Gasherbrum II. This season, at least 24 climbers, including five Pakistanis, have successfully reached its summit.
Polish Climber Injured on Broad Peak
In a separate development, Polish mountaineer Waldemar Kowalewski sustained a leg fracture after being struck by a snow avalanche above Camp II on Broad Peak. The incident occurred at 6,500 meters during a routine rotation, while his companions Jarek and Hassan escaped unhurt.
Following the accident, a rescue team managed to bring Kowalewski down to Camp I on Sunday. According to Karrar Haidri, Vice President of the Alpine Club of Pakistan, rescuers are currently evaluating the safest method for further evacuation.
Arrangements have been made for the Pakistan Army to airlift the injured climber from Broad Peak base camp to Skardu today (Monday), according to expedition organizers.
